Meniscus surgeries vary in approach and degree. If the tear occurred near the edge of the lateral meniscus, doctors may elect to repair it with stitches. Repairing of a meniscus typically requires two to three months recovery time. If the experts choose to simply trim the damaged area, Westbrook could be playing again in as short as two weeks.

For example, Blake Griffin had surgery on his right knee to repair a meniscus tear in college and returned in brisk fashion after missing only one game. Chris Paul, on the other hand, was sidelined for about two months after tearing the meniscus in his left knee. Degree of damage, location and method of repair all play a factor into recovery time.

What does this mean for the Clippers? If they are able to handle the Grizzlies, they may be entering a second round showdown versus a Thunder team missing its explosive point guard and highest usage player.